Original Item: Only One Available. Now this is a lovely example of an item that is growing increasingly difficult to come across, the Heart-Shield bible. An American soldier received this pocket Bible from his sister, Sue, before he shipped off to Europe during World War II. In this bible he placed a flower and small clutch of leaves, which are now flat and preserved. On the very last page of the book, the soldier wrote a few short “Diary” entries.

The inscription on the first page reads:

May God Bless
You & may this
Book give you
Strength and good
Guidance in your
Service of your country
Dec. 8, 1944 your sister Sue.

Many American soldiers were issued or gifted Bibles. Some came with a metal cover like this one, often engraved with positive reminders and in this case it reads as “May This Comfort and Protect You”. Because they were often carried in shirt pockets, they are known as “Heart Shield Bibles.”

The Heart Shield Bibles were a durable edition made for the

battlefield, and was the source of encouragement for many GIs. Even the metal-covered editions were unlikely to stop a bullet. But in an extraordinary case, like that of John Philips, this Bible made the difference between life and death.

This example is in wonderful condition and was carried overseas to Europe, namely Germany. Unfortunately this example is not directly named but that does not take away from the beauty and historical significance. The bible measures approximately 4 ½” x 3” and is offered in wonderful condition.

Comes ready for further research and display.